Wild Weeds – Weed of the Month

Rabbit Bells

Crotalaria rotundifolia

This low-growing wildflower can be found in pinelands, sandhills, and disturbed sandy areas throughout Florida. The small yellow flowers bloom in the afternoon and are only open for one day. They mostly attract bees as pollinators. Rabbit Bells are one of only 4 native crotalaria species found in the state.

Florida Wildflower foundation warns “All Crotalaria species are poisonous if ingested due to the presence of pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Keep away from small children, pets and livestock. Despite the toxicity, plants in this genus are larval hosts for the Ceraunus blue butterfly and the Bella moth (also known as the Rattlebox moth). The latter relies on the plant’s toxic alkaloids, which it obtains from the seeds, for its brilliant colors.”

Learn more about the plant characteristics here: https://www.flawildflowers.org/flower-friday-crotalaria-rotundifolia/

Check out other Wild Weeds Here: http://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/bakerco/tag/wild-weeds/ 

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